Krabi International Airport (KBV)
Krabi International Airport (IATA: KBV, ICAO: VTSG) serves as the main air gateway to Krabi province and southern Thailand’s renowned Andaman coast. Located approximately 7 to 15 kilometers from Krabi Town, the airport provides efficient access to popular destinations including Ao Nang, Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta.
Airport Overview
Krabi International Airport is managed by Thailand’s Department of Airports and offers a compact, efficient experience for both domestic and international travelers. Though smaller than regional airports in Phuket or Bangkok, KBV’s proximity to Krabi’s beach resorts and island piers makes it an ideal choice for visitors seeking convenient access to Thailand’s coastal highlights.
Key Facts
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Location: Nuea Khlong District, Krabi Province, Thailand
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IATA/ICAO Code: KBV / VTSG
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Operator: Department of Airports (DOA)
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Distance to Krabi Town: Approximately 15 minutes by car
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Distance to Ao Nang: Approximately 30–40 minutes by car
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Terminals: Two (T1 – International, T2 – Domestic)
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Runway: Single runway, 3,000 meters in length
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Passenger Volume: Over 4 million annually (pre-pandemic levels)
Terminals and Services
Krabi International Airport has two terminals:
Terminal 1 – International
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Handles all international arrivals and departures
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Facilities include immigration, customs, baggage claim, foreign exchange, and limited duty-free shopping
Terminal 2 – Domestic
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Serves flights from major Thai cities
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Basic facilities for check-in, baggage handling, and passenger seating
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A few convenience stores and food kiosks are available
General Amenities
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Free public parking for short-term and long-term use
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Wheelchair accessibility throughout both terminals
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Restrooms with baby-changing stations and nursing rooms
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Information desks, lost & found, and tourist assistance available
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Currency exchange, ATMs, and SIM card providers in the arrival areas
Airlines and Destinations
Krabi Airport hosts a mix of low-cost and full-service airlines connecting the region to domestic and international destinations.
Major Airlines Operating
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Thai Airways
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Thai AirAsia
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Bangkok Airways
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Nok Air
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Thai VietJet Air
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Scoot
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AirAsia (Malaysia and Indonesia)
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Singapore Airlines (seasonal, via Scoot or codeshare partners)
Popular Routes
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Domestic: Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), Chiang Mai
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International: Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Guangzhou (seasonal and subject to change)
Ground Transportation
Krabi International Airport provides multiple transport options for reaching nearby towns, resorts, and ferry piers:
Taxis and Private Transfers
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Available at the arrival terminal
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Fixed fare system in place for common destinations
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Travel time to Ao Nang: ~40 minutes
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Travel time to Klong Jilad Pier (Phi Phi ferries): ~30 minutes
Shared Minivans
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Cost-effective shared transport to Krabi Town, Ao Nang, or ferry piers
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Tickets can be purchased at counters in the arrivals area
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Ideal for budget-conscious travelers or small groups
Car Rentals
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Major car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, and Thai Rent A Car operate at the airport
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Recommended for travelers planning to explore Krabi and nearby provinces independently
Things to Know
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Dining and Shopping: Limited options inside both terminals; advisable to eat before arriving or plan accordingly.
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Early Arrival: During peak travel periods (November to April), it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure.
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Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available, though speeds may vary depending on terminal congestion.
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Seasonal Variations: Flight frequencies may change depending on tourism seasonality and international demand.
Final Notes
Krabi International Airport offers a simple, efficient, and traveler-friendly experience that complements the relaxed atmosphere of Thailand’s southern coast. With growing connectivity and reliable ground transport options, KBV remains a convenient starting point for island-hopping, beach vacations, and Andaman adventures.
